Nursing Strategies in the Postpartum Period: Prevention of Puerperal Infections

Abstract

Puerperal infections occur in the first six weeks after delivery, and nurses contribute to preventing and combating these infections. Nurses are usually the first to identify signs and instruct mothers on preventive care. Adequate training and adherence to prevention guidelines can reduce the incidence of infection, promoting the health of mothers and newborns. Therefore, the study aims to analyze the main nursing strategies applicable in the postpartum period aimed at preventing puerperal infections. The methodology consists of a systematic review of the literature with data collection in the Scopus and Pubmed databases, using the descriptors "nurse", "nursing strategies", "postpartum" and "puerperal infections" in Portuguese and English in the time range from 2018 to 2023. The results demonstrated that there is a consensus on the importance of nursing in preventing puerperal infections, but point to the need for improvements in studies in practice. To reduce these infections, it is essential to focus on the health of the postpartum woman, follow protocols and improve the educational practices of nurses. Although there is agreement on the need for continuing education and standardization, studies differ on the most frequent complications. A balanced approach, with humanized care and integration of the health team, is essential for the application of nursing strategies in the postpartum period. It is concluded that aseptic techniques and health education are essential to prevent complications in the postpartum period. Individualized monitoring of postpartum women by nurses is a fundamental strategy to ensure the safety and well-being of patients.